Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed has announced a nationwide crackdown on extortionists, armed criminals and listed offenders, with operations set to begin in Dhaka soon.
Authorities are preparing lists of suspects across the capital and the rest of the country before launching the drive.
He made the remarks on Wednesday at around 12pm while briefing reporters after visiting the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) headquarters and holding a meeting with senior officers.
Home Minister said “Law enforcement agencies will identify extortionists and bring them under the law. They are also preparing lists of armed criminals and notorious accused.”
“Government has prioritised these two issues and will continue its efforts to restore peace, discipline and the rule of law” he added.
He described the improvement of law and order as the government’s top priority. He said police play a leading role in ensuring public safety and upholding the rule of law.
Referring to the previous administration, he said the police, like other institutions, suffered under what he described as a fascist system of governance. He added that the actions of certain individuals in the past should not tarnish the entire force.
Emphasising discipline, Salahuddin said authorities have reinforced the chain of command and professionalism within the police. He said ministers, the police commissioner or the inspector general of police may communicate at any level if necessary for official work. However, lower-ranking officers must not bypass their superiors to issue instructions.
On traffic congestion in Dhaka, Salahuddin said authorities have formed a dedicated cell to address the issue. He added that steps will be taken to regulate the uncontrolled movement of battery-powered rickshaws. The government is considering limiting non-motorised vehicles, especially on VIP and major roads.
As a pilot measure, authorities will regulate the road from Uttara to the Secretariat as a VIP route. The government plans to expand the system gradually to other roads.
Home Minister also urged citizens to follow traffic rules, saying that keeping the left lane clear and complying with regulations could significantly reduce congestion.
